Appearance

Harys has a small white beard[2] over his small chin.[3] He is bald, soft, and obsequious.[2] His yellow doublet is decorated with the bantam rooster of House Swyft in lapis beads.[2]

History

When Tytos Lannister was Lord of Casterly Rock, Ser Harys borrowed large sums of money from House Lannister. Upon Ser Tywin Lannister's return from the War of the Ninepenny Kings, the young heir of Casterly Rock was determined to return his House's status and began by demanding repayment of gold lent by his father, Tytos. Those who could not repay immediately had to send a hostage to Casterly Rock until their debt was settled. Harys hastened to obey, stating, "The Lion has awoken." Unable to pay immediately, Harys surrendered his daughter, Dorna, into the custody of Ser Kevan Lannister until the debt was settled. Kevan eventually married Dorna.[4]

During the Battle of the Blackwater, Harys is trapped beneath his horse after it falls on him. He is rescued by one of his men-at-arms, Willit, who defends him against all attackers, taking grievous wounds in the process.[7]

When Cersei is arrested by the Faith of the Seven, Harys and Grand Maester Pycelle take control of King Tommen and request that Kevan Lannister return to King's Landing as regent.[1]

A Dance with Dragons

Harys continues to serve as lord treasurer,[11] although his vaults are empty.[12] In order to placate the Iron Bank of Braavos, he writes to the bankers of Myr in hopes of a loan and is advised by Kevan to also write to the magisters of Pentos. Kevan refuses to follow Harys's suggestion of raising taxes as the realm is too full of rebellion and half its lords cannot tell taxation from tyranny. Kevan suggests to Harys that he travel to Braavos and treat with the Iron Bank in person.[12]

The Winds of Winter

Warning This information has thus far been released in a sample chapter for The Winds of Winter, and might therefore not be in finalized form. Keep in mind that the content as described below is still subject to change.